The Columbus laboratory is ESA’s largest single contribution to the International Space Station and the first permanent European research facility in space. With 75 cubic meters of space, Columbus supports experiments in space science, Earth observation, and technology, giving European scientists access to a unique weightless environment.

Columbus contains ten standardized racks for experiments, with five dedicated to ESA, including:

1. Biolab: Focused on microorganisms, cells, and plants.

2. European Physiology Modules: Investigating the effects of space on human physiology.

3. Fluid Science Laboratory: Studying fluid behavior in microgravity.

4. European Drawer Rack: Supporting various experiments.

5. European Transport Carrier: Facilitating the transfer of experiments and samples.

Additionally, two external facilities support space exposure experiments and solar observations. The Columbus Control Centre in Germany connects European astronauts with researchers on Earth, enabling real-time monitoring and control of experiments.